Gov. Baker Signs Bill Repealing Antiquated Mass. Abortion Ban

Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker has signed a bill that repeals a series of antiquated state laws, including an abortion ban with roots dating to 1845.

The Republican governor was joined Friday by Democratic lawmakers and other abortion rights advocates at a signing ceremony for the so-called NASTY Women Act — short for Negating Archaic Statutes Targeting Young Women.

Proponents said the repeal was needed to assure abortion remains legal in the state should a more conservative U.S. Supreme Court overturn the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that created a nationwide right to abortion.

Massachusetts, according to the group Emily's List, was one of 10 states with pre-Roe abortion bans still on the books.

Baker said Massachusetts "will not compromise on a woman's right to her own decisions."

“As women’s rights are under constant assault on a national level, this vital legislation will ensure Massachusetts remains at the forefront of protecting women and the services they most need,” newSenate President Karen Spilka, an Ashland Democrat, said in a statement.

Also repealed were other archaic laws that have not been enforced for generations, including limits on contraception and bans on adultery and fornication.

In November the governor signed a law insulating Massachusetts from federal changes to birth control coverage under the Affordable Care Act, protecting a woman's right to free contraception.

With reporting by The Associated Press, State House News Service and the WBUR Newsroom